Practice Survival Hinges On New Models, Technology

Yet another report--this one released by the Physicians Foundation--paints a bleak picture for the future of physician practices as we know them. The report, which cites "dire challenges" to practices posed by falling physician visits, rising operating expenses, retiring baby boomers and plummeting morale, offers a number of policy recommendations to improve physicians' working conditions.

Among other recommendations, the report calls for:

• The reduction of physician reporting requirements that do not result in cost savings or measurable reductions in patient risk
• A new debt-relief system for young physicians
• Continued development of new practice models such as patient-centered medical homes and direct-pay systems
• Elimination of disparities between what hospitals and practices can charge for the same service